Liverpool manager Arne Slot faces a challenge ahead of their Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest, with injuries to Florian Wirtz and Conor Bradley disrupting preparations. While Alisson Becker makes his return from injury, both Wirtz and Bradley have returned from international duty carrying problems.
Wirtz is expected to miss only a short period, whereas Bradley’s absence will be longer, leaving Liverpool without a senior right-back for the upcoming fixtures.
Team News
In his pre-match press conference, Slot provided updates on his squad:
Conor Bradley is unlikely to feature in the next 22 days unless an unlikely recovery occurs.
Florian Wirtz will miss the Forest game but should return soon.
Jeremie Frimpong remains sidelined with a hamstring injury for several more weeks.
Alisson trained last week and this week and is available to start if all goes well.
Predicted Lineup
With Bradley and Frimpong unavailable, Slot has four potential options at right-back: Dominik Szoboszlai, Curtis Jones, Joe Gomez, or the outside possibility of Calvin Ramsay. Only Ramsay is a natural right-back, but Slot is expected to rely on a senior squad member.
Szoboszlai has adapted well to full-back duties when required, although his absence in midfield has been noticeable. Gomez has experience in the position, but missing a training session on Thursday raises concerns about his match sharpness.
Most Likely XI:
Alisson; Szoboszlai, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Jones, Mac Allister; Salah, Gakpo, Ekitike
This setup allows Szoboszlai to cover right-back while maintaining Jones in midfield. Hugo Ekitike continues up front after scoring for France, and Alisson returns following eight matches out injured.
Alternate Options:
Slot could opt for Gomez at right-back to keep Szoboszlai’s pressing presence in midfield. Milos Kerkez is another potential starter, although Robertson is likely to retain his spot. Alexander Isak, back from injury with limited minutes for Sweden, may also be considered, potentially replacing Ekitike for only his fourth Premier League appearance this season.
Alternate Lineup:
Alisson; Gomez, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister; Salah, Gakpo, Isak
Finding a solution at right-back has been a recurring challenge for Slot this season. While the manager has occasionally rotated the squad extensively, injuries may force him to adopt a more fixed approach for the next few matches
